Uthman bin Abd al-Rahman al-Taymi says that Ibn Abi Mulaykah was asked about ablution, and he said: I saw Sayyiduna Uthman bin Affan (may Allah be pleased with him); he too was asked about ablution, and he called for water. Then he narrated the long hadith, saying: He took water and wiped his head and ears, washing the outer and inner parts of the ears once only, then he washed his feet. Then he asked: Where are those who were asking about ablution? "The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) used to perform ablution in this way (just as I have done)."
Hadith Referenceالسنن الكبرى للبيهقي / كتاب الطهارة / 301